First game for Giants under new coach Ben McAdoo. NY invested heavily in free agency to retool defense, but it's always tough starting on the road. Prediction: Cowboys win. Record: 1-0

Sept. 18 at Washington

Washington won the NFC East last year, although the Cowboys managed to beat them once with Tony Romo out. Washington is at home, however, and that should be the difference. Prediction: Cowboys lose. Record: 1-1

Sept. 25 vs. Chicago

With the inconsistent Jay Cutler back at QB, the Bears are unpredictable on offense. And last year, they had problems defensively, especially against the run. Prediction: Cowboys win. Record 2-1

2016 Lone Star Football Preview

The 49ers are on their third coach in three years with Chip Kelly bringing his quick hit offense from Philly. With talent lacking, however, it figures to be a rough transition. Prediction: Cowboys win. Record 3-1

Oct. 9 at Cincinnati

This is the week suspensions end for Demarcus Lawrence and Randy Gregory but can they provide an immediate boost? They will be tested quickly by Andy Dalton and A.J. Green. Prediction: Cowboys lose: Record 3-2

Oct. 16 at Green Bay

Trips to GB seldom go well for the Cowboys. They have lost four straight at Lambeau Field by an average margin of 18.5. If Aaron Rodgers is healthy, forget it. Prediction: Cowboys lose. Record 3-3

Oct. 30 vs. Philadelphia

Eagles had a coaching change, a quarterback controversy, a roster shakeup and look to be taking a step back from their 7-9 record last season. Should be an easy one for Dallas. Prediction: Cowboys win. Record 4-3

Nov. 6 at Cleveland

In the 13 years since their last playoff appearance in 2002, the Browns have finished last in their division 11 times and have had seven coaches. They are not a threat. Prediction: Cowboys win. Record 5-3

Nov. 13 at Pittsburgh

Great history between the two teams, who have played in three Super Bowls. Steelers have won 73 percent of their home games since 2001, so Heinz Field has been a big advantage. Prediction: Cowboys lose. Record 5-4

Nov. 20 vs. Baltimore

In 2015, Ravens had their first losing season in eight years in part because of an injury that QB Joe Flacco for five games. Ravens not good on the road with 31-81 record in last 13 seasons. Prediction: Cowboys win. Record 6-4

Nov. 24 vs. Washington

Teams have met seven times on Thanksgiving with Dallas winning six, although Washington won the last game in 2012 and has two-game winning streak at AT&T Stadium. Prediction: Cowboys lose. Record 6-5

Dec. 1 at Minnesota

Vikings were a surprise last season, winning Central Division with 11-5 record. With QB Teddy Bridgewater gaining experience and Adrian Peterson running the ball, Vikings will be tough, especially at home. Prediction: Cowboys lose. Record 6-6

Dec. 11 at New York Giants

Cowboys get 11 days rest after two Thursday games, but December has not been a good month for them. Tony Romo is only 13-20 after December 1 in his career. Prediction: Cowboys lose. Record 6-7

Dec, 18 vs. Tampa Bay

Jameis Winston will be nearing the end of his second year and should provide a challenge. Cowboys only 27-28 at AT&T Stadium, so this one should be a test. Prediction: Cowboys win. Record 7-7

Dec. 26 vs. Detroit Lions

Lions have won twice in three visits to AT&T Stadium. Quarterback Matthew Stafford went to high school in Dallas and loves playing there. But Lions will continue to miss the retired Calvin Johnson. Prediction: Cowboys win. Record 8-7

Jan. 1 at Philadelphia

Cowboys fans remember 2008 when Dallas needed a win here in the last game of the season to make the playoffs and lost 44-6. They are hoping these Eagles aren't quite as good. Prediction: Cowboys win. Record 9-7

Translator

Get insights, lively discussion and, of course, debate from Houston Chronicle columnists and guests every Thursday as they take on the most current hot-button topics in sports. Please subscribe on your favorite podcast app, and give us a five-star rating on Apple Podcasts. It helps! Thanks!